smile blog

Are you dreaming of a straighter smile but worried about committing to braces? You’re not alone! This is a common concerned shared by many adults who would like a straighter smile but still need flexibility in their treatment plans. Braces permanently adhere to your teeth for the duration of treatment, which means once you start treatment you cannot remove the brackets or wires without visiting your orthodontist. Invisalign is different. Invisalign uses clear, acrylic aligners that can be removed easily at any time. Invisalign’s aligners can be taken off during mealtimes and at night when brushing your teeth. For some adults, this added flexibility can make treatment easier and more successful.Here are five benefits to choosing removable aligners like Invisalign to straighten your teeth:

1. It’s easier to brush and floss your teeth.

One of the drawbacks to getting braces is that they can be difficult to keep clean. Even if you carefully follow a “braces-friendly” diet, food particles may still become trapped between the brackets, wires and your teeth. You’ll need to floss and brush carefully every meal, and may need to use special floss picks because of your braces. With Invisalign, you can simply remove your aligners for quick cleaning with your standard toothbrush and floss. There’s no need to worry about special oral hygiene products or procedures.

2. You don’t have to change your eating habits.

If you’ve had braces in the past or know someone who has, then you’ll also know there’s a seemingly endless list of foods you can’t eat or drink. Anything sticky, sugary, gummy or hard is on the “don’t eat” list. With Invisalign, you don’t need to worry about what you can or cannot eat– everything is still an option! Simply remove your aligners before a meal for no-fuss eating and drinking.

3. You can remove your aligners for special events.

While the aligners are virtually invisible, there may be times you still feel a bit self-conscious about wearing them, like right before a big interview or date. With Invisalign, you can remove your aligners before a big event and then put them right back in when the event is over.

4. You can remove Invisalign before being photographed.

Whether you’re getting a new driver’s license photo, a professional headshot, or a family photo, if you don’t want to be photographed with your aligners, you can take them right out. Your photos will be permanent records of special memories you make with friends and family, not a reminder of that time you straightened your teeth.

5. You're in control during your treatment.

While braces are an effective straightening option, especially for more complex cases, one downside is that they cannot be removed without first seeing your orthodontist. Since Invisalign aligners can be removed or adjusted at any time, you stay in control throughout the treatment period.Remember, for Invisalign to be effective, you do need to wear your aligners on average for 20 to 22 hours each day. This includes sleeping with your aligners at night. However, should you have a big interview, be attending a party, or be getting your picture taken, it’s easy to remove your aligners temporarily.Removable aligners, like Invisalign, are an effective alternative to braces that give you flexibility and control during your treatment period. For more information on the benefits of Invisalign, or to find out if you are a good candidate, contact your local Docbraces orthodontist.